The Austin Community College District has canceled its summer 2011 study abroad program in Japan following ongoing concerns from last month’s earthquake and tsunami.

“While we’re disappointed we can’t offer the program in Japan this year, the wellbeing of our students and faculty is our paramount concern,” says Stephanie Amundson, director of international programs at ACC.

The college took into consideration the uncertainty with Japan’s food, water, and power supplies, as well as concerns surrounding the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant. The U.S. Department of State has an active travel alert for Japan, and many colleges and universities have suspended programs there.

ACC’s study abroad program in Japan began in 2008 and is offered only during summer terms. It affords students the opportunity to learn Japanese while immersed in the country’s culture.

“We look forward to resuming our program when the time is right,” says Amundson. “ACC extends its support to Japan and its people as they recover from this devastating situation.”

ACC has notified the 14 students who enrolled in this summer’s program, and the college is working with them to find other programs and courses to ensure they are able to complete necessary credits. Students received full refunds of all program fees, including airline tickets.